ELDORADO, TX — The Eldorado Eagles qualified for the 7-on-7 state tournament over the summer for the first time since 2021, and they’re hoping to carry some momentum from that experience into the fall.
Eldorado earned a resounding 33-0 win over district rival Iraan at the 7-on-7 championships, and the Eagles were competitive in a 27-13 loss to Ganado, which won the state title last December in Class 2A Division I.
Even though 7-on-7 is different from 11-man, Eldorado head coach William Robledo said his team still gained confidence from playing so well against top-tier programs.
“They really competed well against some of the better competition around the state, so I’m really proud of the boys,” Robledo said.
The quarterback who helped lead Eldorado to that success, JonnieRae Adame, will be directing the offense this fall.
He threw for 1,812 yards and 18 touchdowns last year as a junior, and he has worked to be even better this year, Robledo said.
“Jonnie is a great athlete, but one of the brighter spots in his athletic career is that he puts in the work on and off the football field,” Robledo said. “He puts the time into video and studying the game. He’s a real student of the game, and that’s one of his biggest strengths.”
Brason Brock could see time at running back and slot receiver.
“Last year was (Brock’s) first year at Eldorado, so I think this second year will help the chemistry with him and Jonnie,” Robledo said.
Another big target is Garrett Walling, a 6-foot-2, 220-pound junior tight end.
“He’s also a great athlete and a student of the game,” Robledo said. “I think he’s still getting bigger and still growing, and he’s got a lot of potential.”
Eldorado will have to replace a senior-heavy offensive line. Marcos Flynn (5-10, 220) will anchor the Eagles as their center, along with tackle Luther Herrera.
“They’ll really lead the way with some underclassmen coming up to play on the line,” Robledo said.
The Eagles also have some big shoes to fill on the defensive line, but Brandon Barajas and Tyler Proffitt are two promising players, Robledo said.
Brock also returns at defensive back after intercepting five passes last year.
Eldorado was 5-6 last season and finished in third place in District 4-2A Division II before a first-round playoff loss to Tahoka (46-19).
It will be difficult for the Eagles to improve upon that finish in district with No. 6 Wink and No. 21 Iraan returning most of their starters from last year.
Eldorado will open its season Friday, Aug. 29, when the Eagles host longtime rival Christoval.
Eldorado Eagles
2025 schedule
Aug. 29 Christoval
Sept. 5 at Ozona
Sept. 12 Sonora
Sept. 19 at Miles
Sept. 26 at Harper
Oct. 3 OPEN
Oct. 10 Iraan*
Oct. 17 at Sterling City*
Oct. 24 Van Horn*
Oct. 31 Wink*
Nov. 7 at McCamey*
*District 4-2A Division II game
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